Inter Milan: 3 things learned

MILAN, ITALY - JANUARY 27: Fredy Guarin (L) of Inter is challenged by Matteo Brighi of Torino during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale Milano and Torino FC at San Siro Stadium on January 27, 2013 in Milan, Italy

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Inter blew a golden opportunity to close the gap on Lazio to just one point in the race for the final Uefa Champions League spot when they failed to beat Torino at the San Siro on Sunday in Round 22 of the Serie A.

The Nerazzurri sprinted out of the starting blocks and were rewarded when Cristian Chivu opened the scoring but were then pegged back by Riccardo Meggiorini’s equaliser in the 26th minute.

Meggiorini gave the visitors the lead early in the second half before Esteban Cambiasso spared the Nerazzurri’s blushes and only the heroics of Samir Handanovic preserved a point for the hosts.

Here are three observations from the disappointing draw:

1. Guarin is indeed fallible

The Colombian has been a revelation this season but had one of his worst games for Inter since joining the Serie A side. An ill-timed lapse of judgment at the top of his own penalty area gifted Meggiorini his first goal of the game and he was nowhere to be found when the home side pushed forward.

The 26-year-old has had a stellar campaign but it’s clear that he needs to be at his best every weekend if Inter are going to snag the last Champions League spot.

2. Handanovic is the real deal

The goalkeeper has been value for money since arriving at San Siro in the summer. The €11 million deal now looks like a shrewd piece of business for the club as the Slovenia international has shown he can do more than just stop penalties.

He is a towering presence between the posts and made some vital stops in the late going against Torino to ensure Inter gained a point.

3. Inter desperately need some reinforcements

The players looked tired and indifferent after Chivu’s opening goal and let the visitors attack them with impunity. Some fresh faces would revitalise what looks like a fatigued squad at the moment, but is there any help on the way?

To say this transfer window has been a disappointment would be a massive understatement. At the time of writing the Beneamata have sold Wesley Sneijder and Philippe Coutinho with only Tommaso Rocchi, who is five years past his expiry date, joining the club.

There are still two days left in the transfer window and some new signings are vital in order to boost Inter’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League.